Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 SD’s Clearest Lake — 1,004-acre glacial lake with the clearest water in South Dakota — visibility up to 25 feet in this pristine spring-fed gem
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area centers on a stunning 1,004-acre glacial lake in Day County — the clearest lake in South Dakota with visibility up to 25 feet! The lake’s exceptional clarity comes from its spring-fed source and sandy bottom — unusual in the prairie pothole region where most lakes are turbid. Pickerel Lake is one of the deepest glacial lakes in eastern South Dakota (60+ feet deep) and supports excellent walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch fishing. The surrounding Coteau des Prairies (Prairie Hills) is a massive glacial moraine stretching 200 miles.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Day County, SD |
| Entry Fee | SD Park Entrance License required |
| Lake | 1,004 acres — SD’s CLEAREST! |
| Clarity | 25-foot visibility! |
| Depth | 60+ feet! |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Pickerel Lake so clear?
Spring-fed water, a sandy bottom, and limited agricultural runoff combine to give Pickerel Lake exceptional clarity — unusual in the prairie pothole region. Most eastern SD lakes are shallow and turbid; Pickerel’s depth (60+ feet) and spring sources keep the water remarkably clear.
About Pickerel Lake
Pickerel Lake Recreation Area in Day County provides recreation on one of eastern South Dakota’s glacial lakes — the prairie pothole region where thousands of small lakes dot the landscape. The lake is named for chain pickerel (though northern pike are the local equivalent). The Coteau des Prairies glacial plateau creates this lake-rich landscape.
Things to Do
Fishing for walleye, northern pike, and perch, camping, boating, swimming at the beach, and birdwatching in the prairie pothole region — one of North America’s most important waterfowl breeding areas.
💎 Visit Pickerel Lake Recreation Area
1,004 acres — SD’s clearest lake! 25-foot visibility, 60ft deep!
